Controlling weeds in your lawn can be a difficult and ongoing task. But there are some effective ways to manage them. Did you know that weeds are actually plants? They are simply plants that are growing in an unwanted location. Well, if you can’t beat them, you may as well learn how to control them!
1. Pull them by hand
This is the most basic method of weed control. You simply pull the weeds out of the ground, roots and all. This works best for small patches of weeds or for individual weeds. It’s also good for preventing new weeds from sprouting.
Having said that, pulling weeds by hand can be very time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially if you have a large lawn. It’s also difficult to remove the entire root system, so the weed may regrow. Once the root system breaks, it can also spread and create new weeds.
2. Use a hoe
Hoes are great for larger patches of weeds. You can use them to chop the weeds down at the base, which will prevent them from growing back. This method is best for weeds that have already sprouted and are starting to grow.
Most hoes will have a sharp blade that you can use to chop the weeds. Some hoes, like the draw hoe, have a curved blade that can be used to slice through the soil and weed roots.
3. Cover them with mulch
Mulch is a great way to prevent weeds from germinating in the first place. It blocks out the sunlight that weed seeds need to sprout. You can spread mulch around existing plants to help prevent weeds from growing nearby. If you need help from professionals, Heroes Lawn Care services cover all of your needs!
Mulch is usually made from organic materials like bark or wood chips. You can also find mulch made from inorganic materials like plastic or rubber.
4. Use herbicides
Herbicides are chemical agents that are designed to kill plants. There are many different types of herbicides available, so it’s important to choose one that is specific for the type of weed you’re trying to kill.
Herbicides can be applied in a number of ways, including spraying, painting, or soaking. They can be very effective at killing weeds, but they can also kill other plants if you’re not careful. Make sure to read the label and follow the directions carefully.
5. Use boiling water
Yes, you read that correctly. You can pour boiling water on weeds to kill them. This method is best for small patches of weeds. Be careful not to get the boiling water on any nearby plants, as it will kill them too.
Because boiling water is a non-selective herbicide, any plant it comes into contact with will perish. So use this method with caution. The first step is to boil a pot of water. Then, carefully pour the water onto the weeds. You will then need to wait for the weeds to die. Depending on the size of the weed, this could take a few days.
6. Use salt
Salt is another non-selective herbicide that will kill any plant it comes into contact with. It’s best to use salt in small doses and only on specific weeds. You don’t want to use too much salt, as it can damage the soil and make it difficult for other plants to grow.
7. Use vinegar
Vinegar is a natural weed killer that is safe to use around children and pets. It’s best to use white vinegar, as it has a higher acidity level than other types of vinegar. The acidity is what will kill the weeds.
8. Use soap
Dish soap is another natural weed killer that is safe to use around children and pets. The soap will suffocate the weeds and kill them.
To use soap, mix it with water in a spray bottle. Then, spray the mixture directly onto the weeds. You will need to wait for a few days for the weeds to die. Once they’re dead, you can remove them. Making use of soap is a great way to get rid of weeds without resorting to chemicals.
9. Use cardboard or newspaper
If you’re looking for a natural way to kill weeds, you can try using cardboard or newspaper. This method is best for larger patches of weeds. The cardboard or newspaper will block out the sunlight and suffocate the weeds.
To use this method, simply lay down the cardboard or newspaper on the weeds. Make sure to overlap the edges so that no light can get through. You will need to wait for a few weeks for the weeds to die. Once they’re dead, you can remove them.
These are just a few of the many ways you can control weeds in your lawn. With a little effort, you can have a weed-free lawn that you can be proud of. Want to learn more about lawn care? Check out our blog for more tips and tricks.
